WWDC 2013: Apple unveil iOS 7

A complete overhaul of the operating system, the new software brings the much-rumoured ‘flat’ design intended to take advantage of the whole screen, as well as a revamped interface and a host of new features. It also comes with new typefaces, icons and colours, and also features translucent transition and subtle motion effects.

“There is a profound and enduring beauty in simplicity, in clarity, in efficiency. True simplicity is derived from so much more than just the absence of clutter and ornamentation, it’s about bringing order to complexity,”

– Jony Ive

Control Center

This now gives you quick access to those controls and apps that you need. A simple swipe up when on any screen – including the Lock screen, and you now have the ability to go to Airplane mode, turn Wi-Fi on or off, adjust the screen brightness, or even activate Do Not Disturb. iOS also now comes with a flashlight, and that too is available in the Control Center.

Notification Center

Notifications have also been given a makeover in iOS 7. A swipe down from the top of any screen – again, now including the Lock screen – and you have full access to new mail, missed calls, and also a new Today feature, highlighting that day’s plans and events.

Multitasking

Since it’s introduction in iOS 4, multitasking has made switching between apps much easier. But the problem that existed was that the function was limited to apps specifically developed to allow multitasking. But no longer, as now all apps can be switched between. And now, iOS 7 will actually learn when you like to use the apps, and will update the content before they are used. Additionally, iOS will schedule updates during power-efficient times, such as when the device is on and connected to Wi-Fi, minimising the chance of battery drainage.

Camera

The Camera app has received a big overhaul in iOS 7 as well. It now only takes a swipe of the finger to switch between four shooting formats – still, video, panorama, and a new cropped option. Also, Camera now comes with live photo filters, making it even easier to edit your photos before they have actually been taken.

Photos

One of the biggest changes to iOS this year comes in the Photos app, now making it so much easier to organise and view your photos. You can now view your photos by Collections, Moments and Years, all grouped together in a smooth, sleek and easy-to-view format. iOS collates information such as time and place the photo was taken and uses it to form collections.

AirDrop

It has also now been made easier to share photos – as well as video, contacts and anything else that can be shared – with those around you, literally. AirDrop allows you to locate people near you, and send them the selected item via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. And if you receive something via AirDrop, you can save it and it automatically goes right where it belongs. And of course, all transfers are encrypted and secure.

Safari

Another app to get a major update, Safari now offers improved tabbed views, clearer full-screen page views, and also Shared Links so you can see what is being shared on your Twitter timeline. Also, iCloud Keychain has ported over from OS X Mavericks, giving you more security and less to remember. Keychain remembers your usernames and passwords, and also offers auto-complete when signing in. Additionally, Password Generator can have Safari generate a unique, hard-to-guess password whenever you create a new account, and then also remember it for you.
iOS 7 will be released later this year, and be supported on iPhone 4 and later, iPad 2 and later, iPad mini and fifth-generation iPod Touch.

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A co-owner of this here website, as well as a Writer, Podcaster and Designer. I'm well known for my enthusiasm and positivity. You can find out what's on my mind by following me on Twitter and by checking out The Geek Show, The Podcast of Wisdom and Ring the Bell.